Tender Ranch Beef & Cheddar Macaroni Melt
This cheesy beef and macaroni melt is packed with creamy ranch flavor, tender ground beef, and sharp cheddar for a comforting weeknight dinner the whole family loves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop + Optional Broil
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cream cheese or sour cream
1 cup milk
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat with ranch seasoning mix. Cook until browned, then set aside.
In the same skillet, add cream cheese (or sour cream) and milk. Stir over low heat until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked macaroni, browned beef, and 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted.
(Optional) Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheddar cheese, and broil for 3–4 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Pasta swap: Use shells, rotini, or penne if elbow macaroni isn’t available.
Storage: Keeps well refrigerated for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in microwave.
Broil step is optional but adds a delicious cheesy crust on top.
